Skip to content

Like most problems with technology, pollution is a problem…

“Like most problems with technology, pollution is a problem of scale. The biosphere might have been able to tolerate our dirty old friends coal and oil if we burned them gradually, but how long can it withstand a blaze of consumption so frenzied that the dark size of this planet glows like a fanned…” quote by Ronald Wright
Download Open image
“Like most problems with technology, pollution is a problem of scale. The biosphere might have been able to tolerate our dirty old friends coal and oil if we burned them gradually, but how long can it withstand a blaze of consumption so frenzied that the dark size of this planet glows like a fanned ember in the night of space.”

Ronald Wright

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Large‑scale technological use amplifies pollution beyond natural limits, making the planet’s environment vulnerable to intense, unsustainable consumption.

In simple terms: Scale of tech use harms the planet.

Key Takeaway

Limit consumption and scale responsibly.

Themes

environment technology scale pollution sustainability

Mood

concerned reflective

Type

analytical call‑to‑action

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • corporate strategy
  • personal lifestyle choices
  • urban planning

Key Concepts

ecology industrial growth resource depletion

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance technological progress with ecological limits?
  • What policies could curb excessive consumption?
A Different Perspective

The claim may oversimplify complex economic and energy dynamics, ignoring potential mitigations.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Ronald Wright

Explore all 21 Ronald Wright quotes

More Able quotes

Browse all 17,257 Able quotes